Dangerous Rip Currents Could Develop Along Crystal Coast

With thousands of tourists expected to descend on coastal counties for the long holiday weekend, some counties and beach towns are already advising residents and visitors to start taking precautions.

Carteret County says dangerous rip currents are expected to develop throughout the day along the Bogue Banks. They are urging everyone to monitor water conditions before going into the ocean.

Pine Knoll Shore town manager Brian Kramer says black flags will be flying at his town's beaches Thursday morning. He said because of dangerous conditions, no one should be swimming in the ocean.

There is a potential for locally heavy rains, gusty winds, isolated tornadoes, coastal flooding with surge inundation 1 to 3 feet above ground level, along coastal sections and areas adjacent to the Sounds, according to Carteret County emergency officials.

Atlantic Beach and Morehead City have both moved their July 4th fireworks from Friday night to Saturday night because of the storm.

Surf City has cancelled its celebration for Thursday night.

Dare County says it too is closely monitoring Arthur. They expect the storm to reach the Outer Banks by early Friday morning.

Prior to the storm the area will experience high winds, rough seas, and dangerous rip currents.

Dare County says there is a possibility of water and sand overwash on Highway 12 and the D.O.T. is staged to address any problems.

Residents and visitors are being told to stay informed and begin taking necessary steps to protect property such as securing loose outdoor objects and boats.

They should also assemble or restock disaster supply kits with essential supplies to sustain your family and pets for up to three days.

Carteret County Emergency Services Storm Preparedness

• Check your family's emergency supply kit - review and update your emergency supply kit. You should have at least a 72-hour supply of non-perishable food, water, medications, and other necessities to sustain you, your family and family pets (remember a kit for your car and work). Find a complete list of items to include in your kitat readync.org

• Review and update your emergency plan. Your family may not be together when a disaster strikes so it is important to plan in advance: how you will get to a safe place; how you will contact one another; how you will get back together; and what you will do in different situations. Find a list of simple and practical steps at readync.org

• Have an adequate communications plan - be sure friends and family know how to contact you. Teach family members how to use text messaging as text messages can often get around network disruptions when a phone call can't get through.

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